Handbook on Criminal Litigation in the Magistrates’ Court by Saravanan Meyappan | 2026*

Handbook on Criminal Litigation in the Magistrates’ Court by Saravanan Meyappan | 2026*

“By offering a practical, analytical, a thorough and organised analysis of the complexities of criminal litigation, from the jurisdiction of the court, arrest, remand, charge, bail to criminal trial, sentencing principles and judgment writing, the author has delivered a work of immense utility and practical value to the criminal justice fraternity.”

From the Foreword by

YAA Datuk Seri Hashim bin Hamzah

Chief Judge of Malaya

“… tackling criminal trials demands a mixture of theoretical and procedural legal acumen and undoubtedly this handbook provides for a comprehensive, clear and reliable guide on the intricacies of criminal litigation.”

From the Foreword by

Tan Sri Datuk Nallini Pathmanathan

Retired Judge of the Federal Court Malaysia

Criminal litigation demands careful preparation, comprehensive knowledge of the law, and effective advocacy to safeguard the rights of the accused and promote the proper administration of justice. A sound grasp of the principles and procedures involved is particularly important for those beginning their practice in criminal litigation. Courtroom practice requires practitioners to navigate substantive criminal law alongside procedural legislation, including the Criminal Procedure Code and the Evidence Act 1950, while applying effective advocacy skills. As the first-tier trial court, the Magistrates’ Court deals with a significant proportion of criminal matters, including narcotics offences, general criminal cases, and traffic offences.

This book provides a practical, concise, and up-to-date guide to criminal litigation in the Magistrates’ Court, covering the laws and procedures that govern criminal proceedings from jurisdiction to sentencing. Adopting an analytical and practice-oriented approach, it explores the interaction between procedural and evidential issues in the courtroom, with detailed reference to applicable legislation, case law, and Practice Directions.

Based on the author’s knowledge and practical experience, the book combines statutory provisions, recent judicial decisions, and comparative materials from other jurisdictions to present a clear and comprehensive overview of criminal proceedings in the Magistrates’ Court. While the main emphasis is on Magistrates’ Court practice, the principles and procedures discussed have wider relevance to criminal litigation. Key stages covered include remand, charging, bail, trial proceedings, evidential matters, and sentencing principles.

With its comprehensive and current coverage, this book is a valuable reference for criminal litigators, prosecutors, judicial officers, academics, law students, and others seeking a practical understanding of Malaysian criminal litigation and procedure.

Key Features of Handbook on Criminal Litigation in the Magistrates’ Court by Saravanan Meyappan:

• Detailed coverage of Malaysian criminal litigation and procedure, with particular emphasis on the Magistrates’ Court.
• Practical and critical analysis reflecting the realities of criminal courtroom practice.
• Relevant legislation, recent judicial decisions, case analyses, and legal commentary.
• Coverage of applicable Practice Directions relating to criminal proceedings.
• Simplified Bahasa Melayu summaries and key takeaways at the end of each chapter.
• Practical guidance and tips for trial preparation for both prosecution and defence counsel.

Table of Contents of Handbook on Criminal Litigation in the Magistrates’ Court by Saravanan Meyappan: